Inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress biomarkers and clinical manifestations of organophosphorus pesticides-exposed researchers

Abstract

Organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) exposure may be associated with an increased risk of immunotoxicity in the occupational workplace. The study was designed to investigate and compare the correlation between clinical symptoms, oxidative stress, and the immunological effects of OPs exposure among occupationally exposed researchers. Clinical manifestations associated with pesticide exposure were collected from 49 researchers who were occupationally exposed to OPs (exposed group), and 51 non-exposed researchers (control group). The levels of cholinesterase enzymes (Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and Butrylcholinesterase (BuChE)) have been estimated as an exposure biomarker for pesticide exposure. The oxidative stress status was evaluated by malondialdehyde (MDA) assessment, while total antioxidant capacity (TAC) could be an indicator of the antioxidant mechanism. We used Interleukin -6(IL-6) and Interferon- gamma(IFN-γ) as immune biomarkers as well as Tumor Necrosis factor - Alpha (TNF-α) as a biomarker of cellular immune function. Our results revealed a significant decline in AChE, BuChE, and TAC levels, while there was a significant elevation in MDA in occupationally exposed researchers versus control group. In addition, the levels of IL-6, IFN -γ, and TNF-α have been increased in exposed researchers. From clinical examination, the chief morbidity was pertained to neurological disorders and bronchial asthma as a result of occupational exposure to OPs pesticides. Muscular weakness was significantly syndicated with the decline in AChE and BuChE levels. Bronchial asthma was closely associated with MDA, IL 6, and TNF-α. Furthermore, in numbness, MDA, IL-6, IFN-γ, and TNF-α, were significantly higher. This study also indicated that MDA, IL-6, and TNF-α levels were significantly boosted up in exposed researchers who were not wearing a mask. This could be a risk factor for some adverse health hazards.